CNBC AI News, July 17 – As sweltering heatwaves grip regions across China, with temperatures soaring past 40°C (104°F) and road surfaces exceeding a scorching 70°C (158°F), driving safety concerns are escalating. Experts are now sounding the alarm about increased risks of tire failure in these extreme conditions.
Fan Li, Deputy Director of the Expert Committee at the National Engineering Research Center of Vehicle Driving Safety, cautions that elevated temperatures lead to tire pressure increases due to gas expansion within the tires. This, in turn, significantly raises the likelihood of blowouts.
The risk is further amplified during sudden braking. The combination of elevated tire pressure and the intense friction generated during hard stops dramatically increases the probability of a tire blowout.
To mitigate these risks, drivers are advised to adopt a smooth and predictable driving style. Avoid abrupt acceleration, sharp turns, and minimize hard braking events. In emergency situations, ease off the accelerator and proactively reduce speed, favoring gradual deceleration over aggressive braking techniques.
For extended journeys, implementing regular breaks is crucial. Experts recommend stopping every 1.5 to 2 hours to not only combat driver fatigue but also allow tires to cool down, reducing internal pressure. This simple measure can significantly contribute to safer driving.
Importantly, drivers should resist the urge to rapidly cool overheated tires with water. This sudden temperature change can cause the tire’s rubber compound to contract dramatically, potentially leading to structural damage and increasing the risk of a blowout. Natural cooling is the recommended approach.
In the unfortunate event of a tire blowout, maintaining composure is paramount. Avoid instinctively slamming on the brakes or making sharp steering corrections, as these actions can destabilize the vehicle and lead to loss of control. Instead, gently release the accelerator to allow the vehicle to decelerate naturally. Once you’ve regained directional stability, apply the brakes gradually and progressively to safely bring the vehicle to a stop on the side of the road.
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